Grazing through Portland: Susan's Fish & Chips

What’s not to like about Susan’s Fish & Chips? This garage-turned-fish shack evokes the sea, from the mermaids and fish painted on the exterior to the netting hanging over the counter inside. But don’t expect a fishy odor, Susan’s is clean, efficient, and dishes out some of Portland’s best and cheapest fried seafood. Order at the counter, snag a table, booth, or seat at the counter, and a few minutes later, the order is delivered.

Service is speedy, but while waiting for your order, peruse the photos on the back wall or the wall of fame, decorated with plentiful Best Of awards.

The dinnahs, which come with choice of fries, potato or pasta salad, and slaw, are the big-sellers here, ranging from fish-n-chips ($7.99) to a seafood platter ($18.99). But check out the daily specials, and consider the made-fresh-daily chowdah ($2.99-$4.99). Trust me, everything’s mighty good, fresh, flavorful, crispy, yet moist.

Some folks think Susan’s is the best lobstah roll ($10.99, with fries) around. And, should you manage to land a whopper of your own, Susan’s proclaims “You catch it, we’ll cook it for $5, with a two-pound limit.”

And, if traveling with folks who don’t eat fish, there are options, including fried veggie boats, burgers and dogs.